Brazil has announced it will permit the import of used cooking oil (UCO) exclusively for the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), marking a significant policy shift. This move aims to bolster domestic SAF output, which is projected to reach 1.7 billion liters by 2030, and support the nation's ambitious decarbonization targets for its aviation sector.
Astroscale France and Exotrail have announced a strategic partnership to develop deorbiting capabilities for satellites in Low Earth Orbit. This collaboration aims to address space debris and enhance the sustainability of space operations, with a first demonstration mission targeted before 2030. The initiative leverages both companies' expertise and aligns with French and European space priorities.
Mexico City and the State of Mexico will enforce 'Hoy No Circula' restrictions on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. Vehicles with pink holograms and license plate endings 7 and 8 are prohibited from circulating between 05:00 and 22:00 hours to mitigate air pollution in the Megalopolis.
Egypt is set to significantly increase its upstream oil and gas exploration, planning to drill over 100 exploratory wells in 2026. This initiative aims to boost domestic production, reduce reliance on imports, and secure energy supply, forming part of a broader five-year development plan.
Leading British and European retailers are calling for urgent new safeguards for Amazon soy, after the long-standing Amazon Soy Moratorium was abandoned by international traders and Brazilian lawmakers. The move raises concerns about increased deforestation in the vital rainforest.
The UK and nine other European countries have agreed to build a 100 GW offshore wind power grid in the North Sea, aiming to accelerate clean energy rollout in the 2030s and enhance Europe's energy security. This initiative is part of a broader plan to establish the North Sea as Europe's 'Green Power Plant'.
Recent major wildfires in Argentina's Patagonia region, particularly in Chubut province and Los Alerces National Park, have intensified concerns over the government's significant budget cuts to environmental agencies. Critics highlight a drastic reduction in fire management funds and firefighter numbers under President Javier Milei's administration, impacting prevention and response efforts.
Recent major wildfires in Argentina's Patagonia region, particularly in Chubut province, have destroyed thousands of hectares and reignited criticism over the government's significant budget cuts to environmental agencies and fire management services.
Bulgaria's state-owned Bulgarian Energy Holding (BEH) has acquired a 10% stake in the 'Khan Asparuh' offshore oil and gas exploration block in the Black Sea. This move, finalized on January 21, 2026, aims to bolster energy security, reduce import reliance, and generate state revenue. BEH joins OMV Offshore Bulgaria and NewMed Energy Balkan Limited in the consortium.
Spain has officially begun its co-presidency of the WestMED Initiative for a Sustainable Blue Economy in the Western Mediterranean, a role it will hold from January 2026 through the end of 2027. The country aims to foster synergies across sea basin strategies and maritime sectors, working alongside Tunisia in 2026 and Algeria in 2027.
The Hëllef fir d'Natur Foundation has announced the Trembling Aspen (Populus tremula) as Luxembourg's 'Tree of the Year' for 2026. This selection highlights the ecological importance of the fast-growing deciduous tree, known for its distinctive quivering leaves and role in biodiversity.
Chinese scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Beijing Institute of Technology have unveiled a groundbreaking method for recycling lithium batteries using only carbon dioxide and water. Published in 'Nature Communications' on January 10, 2026, this 'three-in-one' strategy achieves over 95% lithium recovery, upcycles valuable metals, and sequesters carbon, eliminating harsh chemicals and hazardous waste.
Abu Dhabi's Supreme Council for Financial and Economic Affairs has launched a new Carbon Capture Policy, establishing a robust regulatory framework for Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) activities. The policy aims to drive decarbonization, foster innovation, and enhance the emirate's sustainable economy.
Massive wildfires have consumed over 50,000 hectares in Argentina's Patagonia, leading to thousands of evacuations. Drought, extreme heat, and strong winds exacerbate the blazes, with arson suspected in several outbreaks. Protected areas like Los Alerces National Park are under severe threat.
Bulgaria is set to conduct its 50th Midwinter Waterbird Census from January 15-18, 2026, an annual event crucial for environmental monitoring. Organized by the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds and the Executive Environment Agency, the census contributes to the International Waterbird Census, tracking population trends and wetland health across the country.
In Brazil's Mato Grosso state, a network of over 700 seed collectors, including Indigenous peoples and family farmers, is actively working to restore thousands of hectares of forests and savannas. Initiatives like the Xingu Seed Network utilize native seeds to combat rampant deforestation and contribute to Brazil's ambitious reforestation goals.
The UK government has released the final reports from Phase Two of its Direct Air Capture and Greenhouse Gas Removal Innovation Programme. These reports detail the performance of over a dozen pilot projects, showcasing technical advancements in various carbon removal technologies while identifying ongoing challenges related to cost, energy intensity, and scalability.
In a move aimed at fostering governmental stability, the 'Yes, Bulgaria' party has announced its decision to contest the upcoming early parliamentary elections in a coalition with 'Continue the Change' and Democrats for a Strong Bulgaria (DSB). The alliance, known as 'We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria' (PP-DB), seeks to address Bulgaria's persistent political instability and implement a comprehensive reform agenda.
The Croatian Government has officially adopted its Bioeconomy Strategy until 2035, earmarking approximately EUR 200 million in investments. This strategic framework aims to foster sustainable production, increase added value in bioeconomy sectors, and reduce reliance on non-renewable resources, aligning with broader EU green initiatives.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the United States' immediate withdrawal from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and its seat on the GCF Board on January 8, 2026. This decision aligns with the Trump Administration's broader policy to exit the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), citing the GCF's goals as contrary to U.S. priorities for affordable energy.
